What is a Domain Name? How It Works, Types & How to Register (2025)

Key highlights 

• Understand how domain names function as digital addresses that make websites accessible without needing to remember IP numbers. 
• Learn how the Domain Name System (DNS) connects domain names to web servers, enabling smooth user access to online content. 
• Explore the structure of domain names, including top-level, second-level and third-level components, to make informed choices. 
• Know the difference between domain names and URLs to manage your website structure and navigation more effectively. 
• Uncover how to choose, register and manage a domain name confidently, including best practices and common tools for beginners. 

Introduction 

Ever typed a web address like www.[example].com and wondered how it works? Every website starts with one key element, its domain name. Think of it as your digital street address. Without one, visitors wouldn’t know where to find you online.  

Understanding domain names is the first step in starting a blog, small business or portfolio site.  

According to Verisign Q1 2025, over 368.4 million domain names are registered globally and that number keeps growing every quarter.  

This beginner’s guide breaks down what a domain name is, how it’s different from a URL and how to register one without getting overwhelmed by technical jargon.  

By the end, you’ll be ready to choose the perfect domain and get your website up and running.   

Let’s demystify domain names and get you ready to claim yours.  

What is a domain? 

A domain name is a human-readable web address, like bluehost.com, that maps to a numeric IP address so users can easily access websites. 

Behind the scenes, every website is hosted on a server with an IP address and a string of numbers like 192.168.1.1. But no one wants to type that in. A domain name translates that numeric address into something human-friendly.  

Also read: Why Do I Need a Domain Name? 

How do domain names work? 

When you enter a domain name, your browser sends a request to a global network of servers called the Domain Name System (DNS). 

These servers check the DNS records for that domain to find the correct name servers or DNS servers linked to it. 

For instance, if your site is hosted by Bluehost, its name server records may look like this:  

ns1.bluehost.com   

ns2.bluehost.com   

These name servers are managed by your hosting provider. It directs the request to the specific computer on the hosting server where your website files are stored. This computer is known as a web server and runs special software (like Apache or Nginx).   

The web server gathers the website’s data and sends it back to your browser, which then displays the web pages to you.  

Also read: How Do Domains Work? 

What are the different parts of a domain name? 

Every domain consists of multiple layers that make up a fully qualified name. Understanding each layer helps you choose the perfect domain and structure your site for better navigation and visibility. 

Here’s how the domain name system breaks down: 

1. Top-level domain (TLD) 

The top-level domain is the last part of your internet domain name, like the “.com” in bluehost.com. It plays a key role in branding and searchability. 

There are three common types of TLDs: 

1.1 Generic top-level domains (gTLDs) 

These are the most popular and widely available TLDs: 

• .com: Dominates the web with over 50% of all domain registrations. 
• .net: Originally meant for networks, now a versatile alternative. 
• .org: Common for non-profits and community-based sites. 

Newer gTLDs like .tech, .shop or .travel offer niche branding opportunities and are often more available. 

These domain extensions help communicate your site’s purpose and are part of what makes a valid domain stand out. 

Also read: Check Out These  Best .Com Alternatives 

1.2 Country code TLDs (ccTLDs) 

These represent geographic regions using two-letter codes. Here are some examples: 

• .us: United States 
• .in: India 
• .uk: United Kingdom 
• .de: Germany 
• .it: Italy 

For U.S.-based businesses, a .us domain can boost local SEO and trust. For example, [smallbizusa].us clearly signals a local focus. 

1.3 Sponsored TLDs 

Some TLDs are backed by organizations and serve specific sectors: 

• .gov: U.S. government 
• .edu: Accredited U.S. educational institutions 
• .mil: U.S. military 
• .travel: Travel and tourism businesses 

These sponsored domains often have strict eligibility rules, making them ideal for specialized use cases. 

Who manages TLDs? 

ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) oversees all top-level domains. It approves new TLDs, monitors domain registries and accredits domain registrars, including Bluehost.  

ICANN helps keep the domain name space secure, consistent and fair for everyone, from large companies to end users like you. 

2. Second-level domain (SLD) 

The second-level domain sits just before the TLD. In www.bluehost.com, “bluehost” is the SLD. In short, it’s the website name your visitors will remember. SLDs are often a business name or brand keyword, so choosing the right one is key to standing out. 

Pro tip: A strong SLD with a generic top-level domain like ‘.com’ gives your site a polished, credible look. 

What if my domain name is taken? 

If your preferred domain is already a registered domain, you have a few options, including exploring how to buy a domain name that’s taken: 

• Look it up using WHOIS information or ICANN Lookup. 
• Try reaching the domain owner to make an offer. 
• Explore other domain extensions like .net or .store. 
• Use a different domain registrar to check for similar names. 

Need help picking the perfect domain? At Bluehost, we’ve got tools to help you check domain availability and easily choose a domain. 

3. Third-level domain (Subdomain) 

The third-level domain or subdomain appears before your SLD, like blog.[example].com. While “www” was once the standard, most modern sites no longer require it. Instead, subdomains help organize your website and improve user navigation.  

A subdomain is part of a larger domain and depends on its parent domain to function. For example, in blog.[example].com, “example.com” is the parent domain. 

Common subdomain uses: 

• blog.[yourwebsite].com: Company blog 
• support.[yourwebsite].com: Help center or knowledge base 
• news.[yourwebsite].com: Press and updates 
• resources.[yourwebsite].com: Case studies, guides or downloads 
• store.[yourwebsite].com: eCommerce section of your site 

Subdomains, such as ‘en.wikipedia.org’ for English speakers or ‘fr.wikipedia.org’ for French users, are also helpful for localization. 

Also read: Free Domain Name with Hosting in 2025 

What is the difference between a domain name vs URL? 

People often confuse a domain name with a URL (Uniform Resource Locator), but they’re not the same. Think of a domain name as your street address and the URL as turn-by-turn directions to a specific page on your business website. 

Let’s break it down. 

1. Domain name = Address 

A domain name is the core identifier for your website. It points users to your web server and helps them access your internet domain using easy-to-remember words instead of an IP address.  

For example, domain name: bluehost.com. 

A valid domain lets users access your website’s homepage or root. A domain name is registered through a domain registrar and linked to your website via DNS configuration and IP routing. 

2. URL = Full path to the page 

A URL is the entire string that leads a user to a specific page, file or resource within your website. It includes your domain name, protocol (like HTTPS) and file path. For example: 

• URL: https://www.bluehost.com/blog/how-to-choose-a-domain-name 

This URL includes: 

• Protocol: https:// 
• Subdomain: www 
• Domain name: bluehost.com 
• Path: /blog/how-to-choose-a-domain-name 

Each URL is like a set of directions for the browser, guiding it from the domain name to the particular webpage the user wants to view. 

Quick comparison table 

Feature	Domain name	URL
What it is	Website’s address	Full path to a specific resource or page
Example	bluehost.com	https://bluehost.com/products/domains
Includes protocol?	❌	✅
Includes subdirectory path?	❌	✅
Used for	Branding, navigation	Linking to content, files and services

Why it matters 

Understanding the difference helps you manage your domain name registration, structure your business website and optimize your domain name system setup.  

Whether you’re creating a blog, store or landing page, the domain name builds your brand, while URLs guide users through your site. 

What is a domain name registrar? 

A domain name registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names. It allows you to search, register, renew and transfer domain names, making it possible for your website to exist on the internet. 

Term	What it means
Domain name registrar	A company that sells, registers and manages domain names
ICANN	Global authority overseeing domains and registrars
WHOIS	Public database of domain registration and ownership info

What does a domain name registrar do? 

A domain registrar is a company authorized to sell and manage domain names. They make it easy for website owners to: 

• Search for available domains. 
• Register a new domain. 
• Renew an expiring domain. 
• Transfer a domain from one provider to another. 
• Manage DNS settings, including name servers, DNS lookup and more. 

Think of it like registering your physical address with the post office—it makes your location (in this case, your website) findable on the World Wide Web. 

At Bluehost, we’re a trusted domain name registrar and web host, making it easy to register and manage everything in one place. 

Who regulates domain registrars? 

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) oversees all domain registrars and registries. ICANN ensures that every domain registration is valid and follows Internet protocol standards. 

ICANN’s responsibilities include: 

• Accrediting many registrars, including Bluehost. 
• Approving domain extensions. 
• Managing the domain name space globally. 
• Monitoring compliance and server information coordination. 

When you register a domain through an ICANN-accredited registrar, your domain is officially added to the domain name registries. So, anyone can access it worldwide. 

WHOIS and domain ownership 

Every domain registration includes registration information, such as the administrative contact, physical location and name servers.  

This information is stored in the WHOIS database, a public record that helps identify domain owners and prevent abuse. 

Tools like WHOIS Lookup or ICANN Lookup let you see who owns a domain or when it expires. It’s valuable if you’re trying to verify ownership or buy a domain that’s already taken. 

How to choose and register the perfect domain name?

Your domain name is often the first impression people have of your business website. It should be simple, memorable and aligned with your brand.  

Here’s how to choose the perfect domain and register it with confidence. 

Tips for choosing the right domain name 

When selecting a valid domain name, consider the following best practices: 

• Keep it short and easy to spell: Avoid hyphens or complicated words. 
• Use keywords related to your business: like “design,” “bakeshop” or “solutions”. 
• Go for a .com if available: it’s still the most trusted domain extension. 
• Avoid legal issues: make sure the name isn’t already trademarked. 
• Think long-term: pick a name that grows with your brand. 

For example: If you run a personal chef business in Denver, a name like [milehighchef].com instantly connects your brand to a service and a region, helping users and search engines alike. 

Get started with a free domain, included with Bluehost hosting. Search now 

Domain extensions to consider 

While .com is the gold standard, there are other top-level domains (TLDs) and generic top-level domains (gTLDs) worth considering: 

• .net: A solid backup if .com is taken 

• .org: Great for non-profits or mission-driven brands 

• .store, .shop, .tech: Industry-specific TLDs that signal your niche 

• .us, .ca, .in: Country-code TLDs (ccTLDs) that build local trust 

Choosing the right domain extension helps set expectations and enhances trust. It also helps your site stand out in a crowded online domain name space. 

Steps to register a domain name with Bluehost 

Registering your domain is easy when using a trusted provider like Bluehost, an ICANN-accredited domain registrar. 

Here’s a quick step-by-step checklist: 

1. Search for your domain using our domain lookup tool. 

2. Check availability and explore other domain extensions if needed. 

3. Choose the domain you want, it’s free for the first year with Bluehost web hosting. 

4. Fill out your checkout details and submit the payment. 

Pro tip: Always keep your WHOIS information, administrative contact and server information up to date. So, you don’t lose your domain due to expired contact details. 

Once registered, your domain connects to your hosting through DNS servers and becomes ready to receive traffic and visitors online. 

Also read: How to Register a Domain Name 

Why should you register your domain with Bluehost? 

Choosing the right domain registrar isn’t just about grabbing a name, it’s about setting your site up for success. That’s where Bluehost stands out.  

We’re an ICANN-accredited registrar and hosting provider that helps beginners and website owners get online quickly and easily. 

Feature	Bluehost	GoDaddy
Free domain with hosting	✅ Yes	❌ Extra cost
WHOIS privacy included	✅ Included	❌ Paid add-on
DNS + hosting integration	✅ Seamless setup	⚠️ Manual configuration
Beginner-friendly dashboard	✅ Simple, all-in-one panel	⚠️ More technical interface
24/7 customer support	✅ Live chat + phone	✅ Phone only (live chat limited)

Here’s why Bluehost is the smart choice for your domain name registration: 

1. Free domain for the first year 

When you sign up for a hosting plan, Bluehost includes a free domain name for your first year. It’s a simple way to reduce startup costs while still getting a registered domain from a reliable provider. 

2. Seamless setup and DNS management 

We connect your domain to your server, handle DNS setup and provide an easy control panel to manage settings and subdomains. No technical knowledge is required. 

Tip: You can also create subdomains like blog.[yourbusiness].com or support.[yourbusiness].com with just a few clicks, perfect for growing brands. 

3. Built-in security and WHOIS privacy 

Bluehost offers WHOIS privacy protection to keep your administrative contact info secure. You’ll also get tools like: 

• Free SSL certificate 
• Automatic domain renewal 
• Domain transfer support 
• Easy management of your domain registration information 

4. Trusted support and uptime 

Whether you’re launching a business website, blog or portfolio, Bluehost provides 24/7 support, solid uptime and expert guidance. So, you can move from domain confusion to confidence. 

5. Build your brand from one dashboard 

Manage everything from domains to hosting in one dashboard, whether you’re just starting or managing multiple sites. 

It’s everything you need to launch and grow, all in one place, with Bluehost WordPress hosting. 

Final thoughts 

Understanding ‘what a domain name is’ sets the foundation for everything you’ll do online. It’s more than just a name; it’s how people find and trust your business. 

The Domain Name System connects your domain to your IP address and web server, making your site easy to access. 

If you’re new to domain name registration, we make it simple at Bluehost. We help you search, register and manage your domain. You also get a free domain for the first year with hosting. Plus, our built-in DNS tools and expert support are here whenever you need them. 

Whether you’re starting a blog, launching a store or building your first site, your domain name is where it all begins. 

Start your journey today — register your domain with Bluehost now. 

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